Empower
Equip women journalists with skills and mentorship.
Protect
Defend women journalist's rights
Educate
Strengthen journalism through training and learning
Advocate
Promote gender equality through ethical journalism
About Us
Founded in 2006, the Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) is a pioneering non-profit organization, dedicated to empowering women in Somalia’s media sector and advancing gender equality through advocacy, training, and mentorship.
SOMWA has been at the forefront of promoting women’s voices, protecting women journalists, and ensuring gender-sensitive reporting for over two decades. Our mission is to create a free, inclusive, and professional media environment where women can thrive as storytellers, leaders, and change-makers.
Programs & Thematic Areas
Women in Media & Journalism Development
Builds the skills, professionalism, and leadership of women journalists across Somalia.
Women’s Leadership & Political Empowerment
Empowers current and aspiring women leaders and promotes meaningful political participation.
Digital Empowerment & Online Safety
Enhances women’s digital skills and promotes safe, accessible, and inclusive online spaces.
Women’s Rights & Protection
Advocates for women’s rights, prevents gender-based violence, and combats harmful practices...
Women Journalists’ Safety & Media Freedom
Protects women journalists, addresses harassment and online abuse, and champions press freedom.
Good Governance, Democracy & Environment
Promotes good governance, democratic participation, human rights, and greater awareness...
News & Updates
We are pleased to officially announce the adoption of our new organisational logo and …
The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom and the protection of …
MOGADISHU, SOMALIA – 5 November 2026: The Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) has launched …
MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somali women journalists continue to face widespread threats, harassment, arrests, and …
New York, USA — SOMWA Executive Director Maryan Seylac joined a panel discussion at …
Mogadishu, Somalia — October 2026: The Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) is implementing a …
Mogadishu, Somalia — September 2026: Somali journalists, media professionals and public commentators are facing …
Mogadishu, Somalia — September 14, 2026: Somali journalists, media organisations and social media influencers …
Mogadishu, Somalia — September 9, 2026: The Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) participated in …
13 August 2026: The Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) strongly condemns the assault and …
GAROWE, Puntland – Female journalist Suways Gacayte was released on bail on Tuesday after …
GAROWE, Somalia – 14 July 2026 – The First Instance Court of Garowe District …
GAROWE, Somalia – Journalists in Puntland took to the streets in Garowe to demand …
Mogadishu/Garowe, Somalia – 9 July 2026 – The Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) strongly …
GAROWE, Somalia – The Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) strongly condemns the arbitrary arrest …
Our Core Values
The Principles That Guide Us
Our work is guided by values that shape our decisions, strengthen our partnerships, and reinforce our commitment to women’s rights, media freedom, and equality in Somalia.
Respect
Neutrality
Integrity
Reverence of Nature
Selflessness
Openness
SOMWA Videos
Voices Against Silence: Somali Women Journalists Lead the Fight for Digital Safety and Justice
This report documents reality on the ground through verified figures and firsthand testimony from …
SOMWA together with Norwegian Embassy in Somalia, held a workshop titled “Challenges Facing Journalists …
National Mapping & Database Registration is Open!
Are you a woman journalist? Register yourself in the National Database.
Women journalists and media professionals are invited to register for the National Database. You can register by scanning the QR code or clicking the button below.
Our Partners
